Question:
What’s the difference between a print broker and a print distributor?

M.B.

Answer:
That’s a great question! Print brokers and print distributors often provide similar services, such as managing print projects for clients; acting as liaison between the buying company (client) and the print supplier(s); offering valuable expertise and consultation; obtaining price estimates and managing the costs, etc. In general, the difference is that print brokers have more flexibility regarding suppliers that they work with and don’t limit their supplier base. Print distributors usually "represent" one or several printing or mailing companies as independent sales representatives and have a vested interest in steering work to the companies they represent. Along those same lines, print brokers’ fees are generally paid by the buying company. Print distributors receive their compensation from the manufacturers they represent.

However, since there are no formal definitions for either of these titles, it’s best to ask your specific distributor or broker to describe the services they provide and how they work with their clients.